Chapter One: Rocky Introductions
24th Day of the Great Tree Moon, 1180
A knocking sound interrupted the bird song filling the area. The sound caused Bernadetta stirred under the covers. As her mind came to, something immediately felt off about her room. Was it even the room that she was used to? Her eyes fluttered open, the room was a quarter of the size of her bedroom, a basic wooden desk and chair sat to one side opposite of her bed. An unused candle stick and a rusted key sat on top of it.
"This… This isn't my room!" Bernadetta realized fighting her grogginess. "Where am I?!" She looked down at herself, she was still wearing her dress from last night not having changed out of it. A leather suitcase was propped up against her bed, and some kind of black uniform with a skirt and shorts were lying on top of the blanket.
"Mother! Where are you?!" Suddenly, a knock sounded from her door causing Bernadetta to jump. "Who's there?!"
"Ah, so you're awake. Good. Care to come outside?" Bernadetta gulped and shuffled towards the wooden door. She slowly undid the lock and creaked the door open. The people that she saw caused Bernadetta to almost faint: Princess Edelgard of the Adrestian Empire and a frightening young man with wavy black hair drooped across his right eye stood before her. "Open the door all the way, please," Edelgard firmly requested.
Bernadetta didn't hesitate to do as the princess commanded. Edelgard was wearing a black uniform with shorts and red leggings, a red cape hanging on her shoulder. Everything about her was proper, professional, and regal. Not one detail out of place. In contrast, Bernadetta was wearing a purple nightgown, her hair even messier than normal. Bernadetta could feel a wave of embarrassment come over her.
"L-Lady Edelgard! Forgive my rudeness! Please don't behead me!" Edelgard raised an eyebrow in confusion while the man beside her smirked.
"Do not be afraid, I took no offense. So you have heard of me. This is my retainer, Hubert Vestra." Hubert gave a slight bow.
"A pleasure to meet you," Hubert replied with a voice as cold as ice.
"What is your name?" Edelgard asked.
"B-Bernadetta von Varley, daughter of Duke Aimeri von Varley," Bernadetta answered still nervous about who she was answering to. "Where am I? I don't remember moving to…whatever this place is."
"This is Garreg Mach Monastery," Edelgard replied cooly. "How could you have possibly not known you were coming here?"
"I-I just remember having dinner last night, then I felt so tired and fell right to sleep! Mother never mentioned me attending this school recently, though I have heard of it before," Bernadetta sighed. "Now that I remember, I need to graduate from here before I'll have to take ownership over Varley territory…" Edelgard and Hubert glanced at each other puzzled by the girl's story. A chiming bell rang out across the grounds.
"Well, no matter. Perhaps you're just fatigued," Edelgard replied unconcerned. "Get dressed, please. We're to meet our professors and the other students." Bernadetta shrunk a little internally.
"Great. More strangers. Really terrifying strangers!" she thought to herself. Bernadetta nodded quickly and changed behind the closed door. The uniform was fairly comfortable, though the coat made her feel somewhat stuffy. Not helped by the warm weather bathing the school. Bernadetta grabbed her room key and joined the two students. Bernadetta was hanging behind Edelgard and Hubert hands clasped nervously and looking down at the ground. She felt someone looking at her and looked up to see Hubert looking at her as they walked. His gaze was cold and calculating, his presence caused Bernie to feel a chill run down her spine. Hubert looked away.
"Most curious behavior from our companion, Lady Edelgard," he commented. "Lady Bernadetta is as timid as a mouse." Bernadetta felt shame hearing this. It was not the first time someone has commented on her faint-hearted demeanor.
"Hubert, keep such comments to yourself," Edelgard frowned. "We will get to know each other properly in time. See what skills Bernadetta has to offer the class."
"As if I have anything worth offering…" Bernadetta thought dismissively."As a member of the Adrestian Empire, you'll be under the Black Eagle house," Edelgard stated.
"I'm sure that this will be a most fascinating year, Lady Varley. I look forward to our time together," Hubert added. His words did little to cheer Bernadetta up and caused her to tremble.
The trio of students came upon a large courtyard where there were already many students were gathered socializing amongst each other. They entered a classroom with two red banners adorned with eagle symbols on both sides; the homeroom for the Black Eagle students.
A brown-haired girl in a black cap turned towards the new arrivals. Her eyes lit up seeing the Adrestian princess.
"Princess Edelgard!" She trotted over to Edelgard and bowed. "It's an honor to make your acquaintance!"
"Nice to meet you, too," Edelgard greeted. "What is your name?" "Dorothea. Dorothea Arnault," Dorothea straightened her skirt and adjusted her cap. "I've heard much about you, Edie. You might call me a big fan of yours." Bernadetta quietly stood close to Edelgard having not known anyone else in the room.
"Dorothea doesn't seem terrifying… She seems nice," Bernadetta studied Dorothea as she conversed with Edelgard while Hubert watched still feeling disdainful and wary of Dorothea. Dorothea was about 17 years of age, beautiful emerald eyes, long, flowing chocolate hair, and she seemed aware of how attractive she was and wanted to show it off to everyone else. Dorothea's eyes then looked towards Bernadetta.
"And who're you?" Dorothea asked with a smile. Bernadetta's heart leaped in her chest.
"I-I'm Bernadetta von Varley. Or you can just call me nothing at all…" Bernadetta replied averting Dorothea's eyes and shifting awkwardly.
"Why, who'd want to be called that?" Dorothea inquired taken aback by Bernadetta's self-demeaning comment. "How about I call you Bern for short? It's cute!" Bernadetta's cheeks flushed crimson with embarrassment.
"I kinda like that name," Bernadetta forced a smile. But she was slowly starting to like this person. "Someone whose actually interested in me? Haven't felt this good about someone in-" Bernadetta's thoughts were cut short by the arrival of some other colorful characters.
"Ah, Lady Edelgard. So you've finally arrived," a red-headed young man came forward. He was followed by a short, blue-haired boy dragging a drowsy, green-haired boy by the arm.
"Wake up, Linhardt! The princess is here!" The boy said eagerly shaking his companion awake. Linhardt gave a lazy yawn in response.
"I'm awake, Caspar… Ugh, formalities are so bothersome and dull," Linhardt rubbed his eyes wiping away the sleep. Hubert glared at Linhardt's dismissive remark. Before he could scold Linhardt, a girl with intricately braided hair walked forward.
"It is good to be seeing you, Lady Edelgard," Petra bowed respectfully.
"I'm pleased to see you here as well, Petra," Edelgard nodded in her direction. "Would you all please introduce yourselves to Bernadetta?"
"I am Ferdinand von Aegir," Ferdinand said with much confidence. "Heir to House Aegir." Bernadetta felt uneasy about this young man. She felt that the name Aegir was familiar but she wasn't sure why.
"I'm Caspar Bergliez!" Caspar practically shouted causing Bernadetta to flinch. "Is it really necessary to shout?!" Bernadetta thought.
"Linhardt. Bye," Linhardt turned to walk away but Caspar grabbed his shoulder. Edelgard furrowed her brow at this disrespect while Hubert looked ready to kill Linhardt having already shown a lack of reverence. Edelgard put a hand on Hubert's shoulder which seemed to put him at somewhat ease.
"Linhardt! You know who you're talking to, don't you?!" Caspar asked appalled at his friend's behavior.
"And who would you be?" Ferdinand asked looking right at Bernadetta and trying to change the subject. Bernadetta felt her chest tighten as her breathing became shallower. She tried to speak but her words caught in her throat.
"It's okay, Bern. You're safe with us," Dorothea placed a gentle hand on her shoulder reassuringly. Bernadetta smiled a small smile as best she could despite her rising anxiety. She swallowed nervously.
"Bernadetta von…Varley," she finally answered. This immediately piqued Ferdinand's interest.
"Ah, I'm familiar with that name. I was set to marry someone from that territory before plans fell through. It's a pleasure to meet you, Bernadetta!" Ferdinand responded cheerfully. Bernadetta's heart sank.
"Marry?! Marry silly old Bernie?! Is this one of father's schemes to send me off with someone I don't know?!"Bernadetta shrieked in horror and dashed for the open door.
"You won't get me to marry that easily! Waaaah, I wanna go home!" Bernadetta nearly knocked over a boy with a freckled face as she ran through the door way. "Sorry!" She called out already almost out of ear shot.
"Bernadetta!" She heard Edelgard's voice echo over the chattering students.
"Don't look back, Bernie! Keep running! Gotta get back to my room where it's safe!" Not looking where she was going, Bernadetta slammed into another body causing her to fall flat on her back.
"Are you alright?" A somewhat deep voice asked. Bernadetta opened her eyes and saw another young man. He was wearing a black robe with a metal belt, a black coat hung from his back like a cape. His eyes were a purple-ish blue and his hair a teal color. His gaze was somewhat intimidating as if he could see right into your soul, but there was something else about it that wasn't completely terrifying. Though his expression overall was difficult to read. "Miss?" He asked again. Bernadetta squeaked in fear and scrambled to her feet.
"I'm so sorry for bumping into you! Bernie will go away now and never show her face around you ever again!" Bernadetta scrambled away down the stairway crying.
"What was that about, Byleth?" The voice of a young girl piped up as she manifested beside Byleth.
"I don't know, Sothis. That girl seemed so terrified for some reason," Byleth answered.
"Well, we can worry about her later. Come on, let's go! I want to see who you might be teaching, Professor," Sothis snickered at her remark.
Later that day
Bernadetta was hiding underneath her blanket as if it'd offer any real protection from the world. She was not ready to be married off let alone to some stranger with whom she has no knowledge of nor any connection with.
"You're so cruel, father. Why do you keep doing this to me? What did I do to deserve-" Suddenly a knocking erupted from her door. "Y-Yes?"
"Bern, it's me, Dorothea. Are you okay?" Dorothea asked genuinely concerned.
"I'm just fine," Bernie huffed.
"It didn't seem that way to me or the rest of us," Dorothea countered. "If you want to talk about it, you can talk to me whenever you want. No pressure!" Bernadetta uncovered her head. "Anyway, we've finally got our assigned professor: Professor Manuela Cassagranda!" Dorothea added with awe and slight theatricality. "You'll like her, I'm sure of it! We go way back, but I digress. Can you please come out now?"
"Well… Okay," Bernadetta sighed. She threw off the covers and opened the door. Dorothea smiled and put her arm around Bernadetta's shoulders daringly as they walked back towards their homeroom.
"It's nice of your to join us, Miss Varley," Manuela greeted with a nod and a smile. Manuela certainly didn't fit the image of what a professor was expected to wear. Her dress was open on the sides exposing much of her legs, and her top was open showing quite a bit of cleavage. A white coat hung on her back.
Bernadetta noticed Edelgard's disapproving look. Bernadetta felt somewhat fearful of her house leader, what with an expression that always seemed to be evaluating those around her. But now her gaze was all the more intense after Bernadetta's earlier behavior.
"I'm sorry…for running away earlier," Bernadetta averted Edelgard's gaze. Edelgard sighed and relaxed somewhat.
"Bernadetta, please, there's no need to be so afraid of us. We mean you no harm. Now then, can you please learn to relax?" Edelgard responded.
"I'll try," Bernadetta responded.
"You'd be wise to do more than just try," Edelgard warned. Bernadetta felt sweat break out on her brow.
"Anyway, now that I'm your professor, let us get down to business. At the end of this month, the Black Eagle House, the Blue Lion House, and the Golden Deer House will participate in a mock battle," Manuela explained. Bernadetta's eyes grew wide.
"Mock battle?!" Bernadetta exclaimed. "D-Does that mean we're going to kill each other?!" Everyone in the room stared at Bernadetta with befuddled expressions.
"No, of course not! Please, let me finish. This will be a simple test as to ascertain our abilities in preparation for real combat," Manuela elaborated. "You all will be given practice weapons while resident mages will be required to consume a power-reducing brew. There've been… instances of students being seriously harmed by particularly powerful magic attacks. It'll only last for a few hours. No one is going to die, I assure you."
"Tomorrow, I'll meet you all one on one to see which weapons and skills you favor most. Report back here at 9 AM for the consultation. You're all excused." As Bernadetta left the classroom, her dread wasn't eased very much by Manuela's words. Yes, it was only a mock battle, but after this there would be real combat.
"I'm doomed," Bernadetta said forlorn.
27th Day of the Great Tree Moon
The pleasantly warm weather continued through the week. Bernadetta opened her door just a crack. She saw a pink-haired girl in twin tails practically holding the hand of a sullen, blue-haired girl. The blue-haired girl turned her head in Bernadetta's direction causing her to hide. "That girl is absolutely terrifying! She looks like a ghost!" Bernadetta's blood ran cold.
"What is it, Marianne?" The other girl asked.
"…I thought I saw someone, Hilda." Bernadetta's heart jumped into her throat.
"Don't make a sound, Bernie! Not one squeal!" Bernadetta thought anxiously.
"I don't see anyone, don't worry about it. Now come on! Let's go check out the rest of the Monastery! I heard they have horses here!" Hilda resumed to dragging Marianne who perked up at hearing the mention of horses.
"Oh… Can we go see them first?" Marianne asked smiling slightly. Bernadetta put her ear to the door listening for the pair of girls. Bernadetta once again peeked through the crack and confirmed that she was finally alone. She sighed relieved.
"Glad that my hiding skills are paying off now," Bernadetta said with some pride. "Wow, the weather feels so nice! The sun is shining, the grass and trees are so green, and the wind is so pleasant!" Bernadetta inhaled deeply and breathed out contentedly. "So much nicer than at home. Maybe it won't be so bad here."Bernadetta then heard a rustling in the bushes causing her to yelp. Then, a small black-and-white cat crept out of the bushes staring at Bernadetta. Its underbelly was white as was the tip of its tail and its feet. The eyes were a striking gold. It seemed to be under a year old as its mother and siblings were nowhere to be seen.
"Aww, hello there!" The cat lowered itself closer to the ground and flicked its ears back fearfully. "It's okay! I won't hurt you!" Bernadetta sat down on the stairs to make herself less threatening to the small animal. "I love kitties. C'mere, cutie!" The cat slowly walked up to Bernadetta who stuck out her hand. Curiously, the cat sniffed Bernadette's fingers, then rubbed them with its cheek. Bernadetta smiled and scratched the cats cheek eliciting a purr from the cat. "You are a nice kitty, aren't you? I wish I had a pet. But my parents-"
"Good morning," A voice suddenly came from her left. Bernadetta froze, stopped caressing the cat, and looked towards the source. Standing before her was Byleth, the man who she literally bumped into yesterday. His face was as rigid as stone. Even though he was unrelated to her, she felt an overwhelming fear from him that was uncomfortably familiar. Bernadetta shrieked and scrambled back into her room slamming the door behind her.
In response, the cat hissed and scurried away back into the bushes. Byleth stood by himself and scratched the back of his head.
"Real smooth, Byleth," Sothis snarked. "I see you don't have a way with animals either."
"Very funny," Byleth responded dryly and unamused. "I just wanted to introduce myself…"
"Well, no matter. Perhaps she'll reciprocate, perhaps not," Sothis said. "Can we get a move on now?"
Byleth walked down the hallway continuing his exploration. He was walking across the bridge leading to the hallowed cathedral. The spires of which seemed to reach the heavens, a grand, beautiful building that has stood the test of time seemingly unaffected by natural processes. Overhead, a wyvern knight or pegasus knight would fly overhead on occasion patrolling the skyways. A nun was walking in Byleth's direction. She caught sight of him and walked up to him openly.
"You must be the new professor I've heard about! Son of Jeralt Eisner, the Blade Breaker!" The middle aged woman said.
"That's right. My name is Byleth Eisner," Byleth replied in a friendly tone betraying his stoic expression. "It's nice to meet you." The woman stared at him, not expecting Byleth to respond in such a way. Byleth's expressionless face and somewhat monotone voice caused him to come across disingenuously.
"Well…I hope you enjoy your time here at Garreg Mach Monastery," the woman responded before walking past Byleth. Byleth sighed, this wasn't the first time he put people off with unemotional face. Always the same neutral expression regardless of how he truly felt.
"Would it kill you to crack a smile for once?!" Sothis nagged in his ear. "You always look so flat! And you sound so bored!""I know, I know. I don't mean to come off that way! I just…can't help it," Byleth answered feeling befuddled by his condition.
"Hmm, you're a strange one, aren't you? Nevertheless, why don't you practice, huh? It's not that hard to smile!" Sothis lectured. When she turned her head, Byleth resumed walking towards the cathedral getting irked by the spectral girl's badgering. "H-Hey! Get back here, you-! You…Ugh!"
Byleth stared up at the stained-glass windows, ornately colored with bright blues and greens. At the end of the cathedral, an alter was erected with a window letting in a thin ray of sunlight. Byleth never went to a cathedral because his father, Jeralt, wasn't religious himself. Byleth was curious about the Church of Seiros which he heard of in his travels with Jeralt and his band of mercenaries, but Jeralt refused to speak of it whenever Byleth asked him.
Byleth rounded a corner and found four statues tucked away within. Byleth read the descriptions at the base of each: Saint Cichol who held a lance and looked ready to issue commands,, Saint Cethleann who held a mage's staff close to her and seemed to be praying, Saint Macuil who held a sword stuck in the ground and gave off an air of confidence, and Saint Indech who held a bow and was aiming an arrow at an unseen adversary. The statues appeared to have been around for many years though there were no signs of wear on their surfaces.
Byleth heard a whistle coming from behind him. He turned around and saw a dark-skinned young man with a yellow cape draped over his left shoulder: Claude von Riegan, house leader of the Golden Deer, heir to House Riegan, the preeminent house of the Leicester Alliance. By his side was Hilda Goneril, his good friend, and daughter of House Goneril. Behind them was Marianne von Edmund, of House Edmund, whom was looking downwards at a slight angle averting eye contact. The woman didn't appear to have slept since Byleth saw her at the meet and greet.
"Hey-a Teach. Doing some sightseeing?" Claude asked casually.
"Yes, the Monastery is truly beautiful. Thought it'd be good for me to familiarize myself with the grounds, too," Byleth responded.
"You plan ahead, I like it," Claude winked. "Anyways, we thought you'd like to join everyone else for lunch in the dining hall. What say you?"
"I'm getting quite famished myself. All that walking really works up an appetite!" Hilda said eagerly.
"Really? Can't handle a little exercise, Hilda?" Claude chuckled. Hilda ignored him.
"What do you say, Marianne?" Hilda asked smiling. Marianne looked up and shrugged.
"I guess so," she said with a voice barely above a whisper. Hilda's expression became neutral hearing Marianne's lack of enthusiasm.
"Yeah, let's go eat," Byleth answered feeling some hunger pangs coming on. The group started their way back towards the entrance. Claude turned his head towards Byleth.
"So Teach, tell me: What made you choose to teach the Golden Deer House?" Byleth thought for a minute. "Was it my wits, my charm, my good looks?"
"Sucking up to Professor Byleth again, Claude?" Hilda teased. "Trying to get preferential treatment or something?" Claude smiled wryly.
"Maybe. But I'm also genuinely curious," Claude answered.
"After attending the meet and greet, I think the Golden Deer would benefit most from my tutelage," Byleth answered. "Compared to the other classes, you're all an odd bunch. And furthermore, I think you need my help, Claude. During the bandit attack at Remire Village, you nearly got yourself killed when you went off on your own." Claude stared sat Byleth taken aback by his response.
"Well, wasn't expecting that sort of answer. Not interested in being buddies?" Claude questioned.
"I'm not concerned about making friends here. Never have been," Byleth continued.
"Sheesh, lighten up a little," Byleth heard Sothis say perturbed. Claude, Hilda, and Marianne gawked at Byleth put off by his tone.
"Well, there's always time to broaden your horizons, Teach. Just wait and see! You might be surprised how much can change in a year," Claude said trying to lighten the mood.
The rest of the Golden Deer classmates were present for lunch. There were six other students sitting at the table: Lorenz Hellman Gloucester, Raphael Kirsten, Ignatz Victor, Lysithea von Ordelia, Marianne von Edmund, and Leonie Pinelli. The other houses too were all present…except for Bernadetta. Byleth fond this most curious. "Isn't she hungry?" He thought.
"So, Professor Byleth," Lorenz's words snapped Byleth back to reality. "I heard that you had to save Claude from some petty bandits." Lorenz was smirking all the while.
"Yes, him and the other house leaders, Edelgard and Dimitri, as well," Byleth responded. Lorenz chuckled in delight.
"That is rich! I would never find myself in such a situation. My skill with a lance is without peer!" Lorenz boasted.
"I hope that you can live up to your assertions, Lorenz. For it is a matter of life and death on the battlefield, wouldn't want any of you to be harmed," Byleth replied in a serious, grim tone. Lorenz was taken aback by Byleth's response. Claude howled with laughter.
"Never thought I'd meet someone who can shut Lorenz up!" Claude wiped a tear from his eye. Raphael payed the group no mind as he wolfed down a plate of meat skewers. Lysithea grimaced at such piggishness and resumed eating her pheasant roast, taking her time to cut the bird into bite-sized pieces.
"Hey Professor! Do you know where Captain Jeralt is?" Byleth turned his head to Leonie, a red headed girl who was once trained under Jeralt for a short while."I believe he's having his meal in the knights' quarters…Or he's at the pub getting a pint," Byleth replied somewhat melancholy. Jeralt sometimes overdid it at the pub when it comes to indulging in booze. Not only amassing a large tab, but also becoming delirious, angry, and depressed from drunkenness. The why always eluded Byleth.
"Aw man, I was hoping we'd do some catching up. I wonder if he remembers me?" Leonie frowned.
"He mentioned you, so don't worry about that," Byleth spoke again swallowing some salad. Leonie beamed with pride.
"Great! I'll be sure to show him what I'm made of on the day of the mock battle!" Leonie stood up puffing out her chest. "I'll prove to everyone that I'm his number one apprentice!" Leonie added while looking Byleth in the eyes and raising her voice. Leonie's bravado, however, caused everyone in the dining hall to look her way, an awkward silence falling over the room.
"I thought that he only taught you some techniques for less than a day when you were just a kid," Byleth spoke bluntly. Leonie blushed in embarrassment then grimaced before sitting down.
"Like it matters," she muttered resting her chin in her hand. "To think that Captain Jeralt had a kid without me knowing…" Byleth raised an eyebrow at Leonie's statement, but said nothing.
"Umm, so Professor Byleth, how long have you been working with your father as a mercenary?" Ignatz, a spectacled, green-haired boy spoke up wanting to change the awkward atmosphere.
"Well, when I was small, my father began teaching me how to use a sword and fight with my bare hands," Byleth explained. "I prefer the sword and brawling to axes or lances. He also taught me simple medicine and survival skills. When I was a teenager, I would practice fighting his soldiers. When I proved myself ready, he had me as his adjutant in combat for further learning. I've then been actively serving under my father for the last five years." Leonie rolled her eyes in response.
"Wow, you must be pretty good!" Hilda chimed in. "Learn from the best, am I right?" Byleth nodded.
"His reputation and nickname are well earned," Byleth responded. "When you're on the battlefield, you have to push down your emotions. You can't let yourself lose focus of the enemy. Your life hangs in the balance. One costly mistake could be the end of you."
"I see, it is rather humbling knowing what's at stake in combat," Lysithea nodded solemnly.
"Say Professor, would you train me? One on one?" Raphael said with a full mouth. Lorenz scowled at him repulsed. Rapahel swallowed his food. "I wanna get as strong as I can and I think I'd learn a lot sparring with you!"
"Of course," Byleth replied.
"Sounds like a lot of work…" Hilda groaned. "Well, go easy on me, okay?" Claude chuckled. Then, Lysithea's bowl full of salad caught his eye.
"What have we here! An untouched salad?" Claude said feigning horror. "Lysithea, aren't you going to eat your greens?" Lysithea's pink eyes narrowed at Claude.
"What does it matter to you?" She asked annoyed.
"It's not exactly respectful to the chef who made that salad that you'd so callously throw it away," Claude teased. "And it's pretty wasteful, no?" Lysithea's face reddened.
"I-It's not like the chef would miss one salad going uneaten!" She reasoned defensively.
"A growing girl needs to eat her greens so she can grow up big and strong," Claude continued. Lysithea immediately glared at the Almyran boy.
"Excuse me?!" Her shouting immediately caught the attention of others in the hall.
"Claude does have a point," Raphael added. "Veggies aren't my favorite, but they're still important!" Lysithea turned her glare towards the towering young man looking up at his face.
"Yeah, it is pretty disrespectful to waste food," Leonie said crossing her arms.
"Fine!" Lysithea yelled slamming her hands onto the tabletop. "I'll eat this stupid salad!" She grabbed the fork and stabbed it forcefully into a juicy cherry tomato and some greens. She stared at the food a mix of anger and disgust on her face. Lysithea slowly put the fork into her mouth, bit down, and chewed. Her expression was noticeably grim as she swallowed the salad causing a shiver to run up her spine. "Disgusting…"
"Well, that's one bite down. Only about…four more to go!" Claude responded.
"I hate you," Lysithea pouted as her eyes pierced into Claude.
Byleth's mind began to wander back to Bernadetta. She still was missing from the group of Black Eagle students.
"Is…something on your mind, Professor?" Byleth heard Marianne speak up.
"It's nothing. Just thinking," Byleth lied. How strange. I hope that girl is okay…
30th day of the Great Tree Moon
The day of the Mock Battle between the three houses has come. Seteth, right hand of the Archbishop Lady Rhea, assigned this battle to the three professors in order to ascertain the abilities of the professors and their students. This was especially important for newcomer Byleth whom Seteth was wary of after Lady Rhea tasked him with being a professor and re-appointing Jeralt as captain of the Knights of Seiros.
Everyone including the Lady Rhea, Seteth, Jeralt, the professors, and their students arrived in the wooded field in single file. Lady Rhea and Seteth turned to face the group behind them.
"Alright, you know the rules: Anyone who is knocked to the ground in combat loses," Jeralt began explaining yawning. "Head to the southwest rest area where some mages will treat any injuries. Mind your strength, we don't want anyone to get seriously hurt in combat." Seteth scowled at Jeralt's unbecoming behavior expected of the Church's captain. He cleared his throat.
"Now then, I hope you all have worked hard in preparation for this day," Seteth said sternly. "It may be the first battle of the school year, but we will use this to gauge your work ethic and capabilities. Only one class will win this battle."
"I expect that all of you perform to the best of your abilities," Lady Rhea spoke. She turned her head towards Byleth. "Especially you, Professor Byleth."
"I will," Byleth said nodding. Byleth turned towards his students. "I'm counting on you all to follow my lead. Let us give it our all!" Bernadetta peeked her head from behind Dorothea eying Byleth. There was something about him that Bernadetta found calming.
He doesn't seem so bad, Bernadetta thought studying Byleth. Then, she felt a hand on her back causing her to jolt. It was Dorothea.
"Let's do our best and give everyone a good show, 'kay Bern?" She said smiling.
"I dunno if I can-" Bernadetta began.
"Everyone, listen up!" Edelgard ordered causing Bernadetta to jump. "Ferdinand, Hubert, to the front lines!" Ferdinand glanced at Hubert, Hubert returned it smirking slightly. Ferdinand frowned and shook his head. "Lady Edelgard seems to want me to babysit you as to make sure that you don't lost," Hubert sneered amused.
"I do not need guidance from Edelgard's lap dog. I'll show you and Edelgard the true capabilities of a son of House Aegir!" Ferdinand marched off towards the plains.
"This should be an amusing sight," Hubert remarked to himself following.
"Caspar! Linhardt!" Caspar perked up excited while Linhardt awoke from his daze and yawned. "Go secure the western edge of the forest for a sneak attack!"
"Yeah! Got it! C'mon, Lin!" Caspar dashed off as Edelgard ordered. Linhardt sauntered exhaustedly after his friend muttering quietly to himself.
"Petra, go with Caspar and Linhardt and back them up if necessary."
"I will be doing as you say, Lady Edelgard!" Petra bowed before departing.
"Dorothea, Bernadetta, with me," Edelgard gestured for the girls to follow her. The walked towards the woods to the east. Bernadetta, clinging to Dorothea's side, looked up at Lady Edelgard. She carried herself with such confidence, poise, and authority. These qualities gave Edelgard a magnetic presence. Whenever she entered a room, everyone looked her way and dared not impede her. Her eyes were piercing and it seemed like she was always evaluating whoever she was speaking with.
Edelgard looked at Bernadetta causing her to gasp and look away timidly. Dorothea simply giggled.
"Edie sure has striking facial features, eh Bern? I think it's so cute when she gets serious," Dorothea commented. Edelgard blushed in response a little embarrassed.
"I-I, well, yes she certainly gets attention, but I wasn't trying to f-f-flirt with her or anything!" Bernadetta laughed nervously hoping someone would change the subject.
"Dorothea, I appreciate your compliment. I just wish you would save them for when we're off the battlefield." Edelgard responded.
As the Golden Deer class walked to their starting positions, Claude pulled Raphael and Leonie off to the side.
"Can I borrow you two for a few minutes?" Claude asked smirking. Raphael nodded smiling widely, Leonie raised her eye brow quizzically. They walked away from the group out of earshot.
Byleth looked over to the trio whispering among themselves and crossed his arms.
"Hey, you three! Get over here, we're about to start the battle!" Byleth called out.
"Just a minute, Teach! Just giving my friends here a little pep talk!" Claude responded.
"But Claude, I thought you were telling us-" Claude shushed Raphael and resumed talking.
"Why do I have a bad feeling about this…" Lorenz said shaking his head.
"Fear not, everyone! I, Lorenz Hellman Gloucester, shall lead us all to victory!" Lorenz boasted before charging to meet Ferdinand in combat.
"Well, there goes Lorenz about to muck up our plan," Claude sighed.
"Lorenz, come back!" Byleth shouted, but Lorenz was out of earshot. Their lances clashed once, twice, thrice before Ferdinand thrusted his lance forward jabbing Lorenz in the chest.
"I say, your form is quite impeccable, Ferdinand was it?" Lorenz complimented.
"You are correct. Lorenz, right?" Ferdinand responded more than a little proud of Lorenz's compliments.
"You'd best be focusing on the fight than making pleasantries in combat," Hubert interjected firing a Miasma sphere in Lorenz's direction. Lorenz blocked the magic but was almost knocked off balance.
"We need to help Lorenz!" Lysithea yelled. Byleth looked at Ignatz who was holding his bow tightly visibly nervous.
"Ignatz, fire an arrow at Hubert!" Byleth commanded.
"Me?! But I'm not ready!" Ignatz argued.
"Then get ready! Now shoot!" Byleth commanded again. Ignatz fumbled with his quiver and pulled on his drawstring. He took aim lining up his shot with Ferdinand, and fired. Ferdinand was struck in the shoulder messing up his next swing. Lorenz immediately took the opportunity to sweep Ferdinand off his feet.
"Good job, Ignatz!" Hilda cheered.
"Nice shooting, buddy!" Raphael said affectionately clapping Ignatz's back. Ignatz rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. Ignatz looked to Byleth who simply nodded in approval.
"It appears that I have bested you this day," Lorenz said smugly. Hubert then pulled out his sword and caught Lorenz off guard. Lorenz blocked his sword with the hilt of his lance, but Hubert managed to trip him with a leg sweep.
Lysithea shot a fireball at Hubert who just narrowly dodged it. Leonie then charged at Hubert anticipating where he'd dodge and swept his legs with a sweeping lance strike. Leonie puffed out her chest smirking.
"I didn't order you to attack, Leonie," Byleth walked up behind her disapproving.
"I know what I'm doing, Professor," Leonie retorted mildly annoyed. "Captain Jeralt prepared me for combat.
"I don't care. I'm not my father, I need you to obey my orders," Byleth answered shaking his head. "Understood?" Leonie sighed.
"Understood," she replied not wanting to make a scene.
"My my, that was quite a show of strength, Lorenz," Claude said sarcastically. "Truly worthy of a noble of House Gloucester," he added impersonating Lorenz. Lorenz glared at Claude unamused by his mocking tone. Lorenz got up dusting himself off.
"You were a fool to charge into battle like that, Lorenz," Byleth scolded. "You three, head to the outskirts for further treatment." Lorenz, Ferdinand, and Hubert walked away somewhat pained.
"And Lorenz?" Lorenz turned back towards Byleth holding his head. "Be sure to not to do an arrogant stunt like that again."
"Yes, Professor," Lorenz answered before rejoining Ferdinand and Hubert.
"What was that about not needing the guidance of Edelgard's 'lap dog'?" Hubert asked Ferdinand smugly.
"Don't start," Ferdinand replied flatly.
"Come," Byleth ordered gesturing for his students to follow him.
Taking cover in a wooded area, the Golden Deer class surveyed the area. Leonie, up in a tree, covered her eyebrows to block the sunlight. In the distance, three figures were barely visible to her: Blue Lion students Dedue, Ashe, and Mercedes.
"You see anyone, Leonie?" Byleth called up from below.
"Yup! Three students are guarding the entrance deeper into the woods!" She called back climbing down the tree.
"The Black Eagle class is to the west, right?" Lysithea asked.
"That's correct, Lysithea," Byleth answered.
"It may not be wise to try and go through the middle or else we could get attacked on all sides," Lysithea continued. "Most tricky…"
"Very astute. Thank you, Lysithea," Byleth acknowledged gratefully. Lysithea smiled beaming with pride. Claude smirked at his short classmate.
"Trying to earn brownie points with Teach, Lys?" He teased in a blithe tone. Lysithea glared at Claude, pink eyes fiery with annoyance. "Hey, not that that's a bad thing! I intend on doing much the same."
"Well, I intend on being a good student and learning as much as I can from Professor Byleth," Lysithea snapped back.
"Enough, both of you," Byleth interjected holding up his hand. "Don't make me separate you two." Lysithea huffed and crossed her arms pouting embarrassed for being admonished. Leonie snickered to herself.
"What's the plan, Professor?" Raphael asked eagerly.
"Ignatz, Raphael, Lysithea, go attack the Blue Lion students near the woods. The rest of you, with me," Byleth told his pupils. "Move out."
"On it, Professor. I'm gonna show you what an apprentice of Captain Jeralt can do!" Leonie gestured for Ignatz and Lysithea to follow behind her. Ignatz gulped as he held his bow tightly. Lysithea glanced at him and shook her head not confident in him.
Ashe soon noticed the small Golden Deer posse approaching them.
"Dedue, Mercedes, prepare yourselves! I see some people coming!" Ashe immediately readied his bow and arrow.
"Oh my," Mercedes said to herself surprised. Dedue furrowed his brow and tightened his grip on his ax. Ashe fired an arrow at Raphael weaved out of its path. Mercedes shot a fireball at Ignatz who yelped and ducked under the projectile.
"Ignatz, fire back now!" Lysithea shouted annoyed. Dedue charged at Ignatz and swung his axe downwards. Ignatz scrambled back petrified. He stood up and fired a sloppily aimed arrow which only flew a few feet.
Lysithea growled and conjured a Miasma orb, firing it at Dedue. It hit him in the back momentarily causing him to stumble. He turned around quickly eyes filled with determination to fight. He swung his axe horizontally at Lysithea who jumped back to avoid it. Quickly, she pulled out a training sword. Though she had little to no experience with weapons prior, nothing would stop her from learning how to wield one. She parried another strike from Dedue, but she lost her grip on the blade which went flying out of her hand. It landed into the ground with a thunk.
"Ignatz!" Lysithea yelled increasingly frustrated with her classmate. Ignatz' hesitation prompted Raphael to block Dedue's attack with his ax. Raphael then punched Dedue across his right cheek sending him reeling back. Lysithea then dispatched Ashe with another Miasma before retrieving her sword. Seeing that she is outnumbered, Mercedes conceded defeat.
"Well done, you three," Mercedes said cheerfully as she helped up her friends.
"Thanks!" Raphael beamed happily. "At this rate, I'll be the strongest man I can be!"
"Unlike someone else," Lysithea said coldly looking at Ignatz.
"I-I'm sorry, I-" Ignatz was about to say before Lysithea cut him off.
"What were you thinking, you fool? If this was a real battle, I could've died!" Lysithea angrily yelled getting in Ignatz's face.
"I didn't mean to-" Ignatz answered sheepishly. "I'm not used to this…"
"Enough excuses! Don't you remember what Professor Byleth said about being ready to fight?! If you don't shape up, you're going to get yourself killed!" Lysithea's cheeks were as red as roses. Ignatz looked away dejected.
"Lysithea, that's not very ni-" Before Mercedes could finish, Lysithea was already walking away frustrated. Ignatz dejectedly dropped his bow.
"I'm worse than useless in a fight," Ignatz said to himself. Raphael gently placed a hand on his shoulder smiling.
"Don't worry, Ignatz. I'll help you train so you can be strong like me!" Ignatz looked away from the massive young man and walked away following Lysithea. Raphael was confused by his friend's behavior. Ignatz wasn't always like this around him.
Byleth, Claude, Leonie, Hilda, and Marianne came around a bend and saw Linhardt napping under a tree. Oblivious to the fact that he's in a mock battle.
"Now, they're just making this too easy," Claude said shaking his head.
"Don't be so sure, I-" Byleth's words were interrupted by yelling. Turning his head to the right, he saw Caspar running directly towards them fists clenched. He was screaming at the top of his lungs.
"Uh… Not exactly subtle, is he?" Hilda asked nonplused. Before Caspar could land a blow, Byleth grabbed him by the collar and threw him over his shoulder. Caspar squawked as his body hit the ground.
"What were you thinking?" Byleth asked mystified staring down at Caspar. "Did you really expect such a telegraphed attack to earn you victory?"
"Stealth isn't exactly my style, Professor," Caspar said wincing through his soreness.
"It's your funeral," Byleth said. Then, he heard the rustling of branches. Byleth's eyes shot up. Petra leaped down from a tree behind Marianne.
"Marianne, look out!" Hilda called out. It was too late as Petra wrestled Marianne to the ground. Marianne exclaimed as her face was shoved into the grass.
"I be the hunter, and you, the prey," she said leaning into Marianne's ear. Byleth attacked her in response. Though his strikes missed, he at least managed to get Petra off of Marianne. Hilda ran over to help Marianne up.
"Are you okay, Marianne?" Hilda looked over Marianne's face now speckled with debris. Hilda tenderly brushed Marianne's face.
"Yeah, my face is just a bit sore, and my head is a little sore," Marianne answered. "Sorry that you have to worry about me."
"Next time, you'll be more attentive," Byleth interjected. "Go to the rest area." Byleth blocked a strike from Petra. Hilda frowned at the mercenary's seemingly uncaring attitude towards Marianne. She helped the blue-haired girl up and dusted her off.
"Go on, Mary. I'll see you after the battle's over," Hilda said smiling. "Don't let the Professor get you down." Marianne smiled slightly and nodded before walking back. She felt a little despondent wondering what Byleth would think of her combat prowess, or lack there of.
"Hilda, I could use some help here!" Byleth cried still blocking Petra's strikes. Hilda ran over gripping her ax. Petra was a quick-footed, ferocious opponent. Her quick, precise strikes kept Byleth on his toes.
"You be a most skilled man of the sword, Professor Byleth," Petra huffed as she continued her assault.
Byleth grunted in response still focused on the fight. Hilda swung her ax which just happened to parry Petra's sword strike. Byleth took the opening and kicked Petra square in the chest eliciting a loud grunt from her. Byleth then heard another yell. He looked over his shoulder and saw Caspar trying his luck again charging at Byleth. Byleth looked to Hilda hoping for her response.
Hilda swallowed and, though hesitant, tripped Caspar with an outstretched leg. Caspar rolled like a ball with his momentum landing him at Byleth's feet.
"You don't know when to quit, do you?" Byleth asked monotone. "You were defeated. Go to the rest area with the others now." Caspar groaned as he stood up, body sore and stiff.
Then, Linhardt let out a loud yawn and sat up stretching.
"Great timing, Linhardt," Caspar said dejected.
"If only I could spend this day enjoying a nice nap and not spend it fighting," Linhardt lamented. "Did you two lose?" Caspar and Petra nodded. "Well, it seems I'm outnumbered. I surrender." Linhardt and Caspar departed.
"Sheesh, and I thought I was lazy," Hilda commented.
"I be greatly enjoying our battle, Professor," Petra complimented. "I do be hoping we can participate in more fighting of swords." Petra then followed her peers. Byleth then noticed missing members of the party.
"Where are Claude and Leonie?" He asked looking around.
"I don't know, they didn't tell me anything," Hilda shrugged. Byleth sighed.
"Come on, they might have gone ahead without us."
Edelgard and Dorothea cautiously walked through the woods. Their eyes leery of every shadow should an enemy be lurking there. Something was amiss, however.
"Bernadetta…" Edelgard sighed. "Where'd you go this time?"
"Bernie isn't here!" Bernadetta called back out of sight as the bush she hid in shook. Edelgard pinched the space between her eyes getting a little frustrated with the girl's behavior.
"Bernadetta, this is only a mock battle. You're not going to die," Edelgard reasoned with her skittish classmate cowering in her hiding spot.
"Let me try, Edie," Dorothea walked up to the bush. "Bern, don't worry. We'll keep you safe. Please come out?" Bernadetta peeked out of the foliage.
"Well…" Bernadetta's eyes then shot dead ahead of the group. "Eeeek! Someone's coming!" She immediately hid again. Down the path, Dimitri, Felix, and Sylvain were coming towards the girls. Dimitri then locked eyes with Edelgard and stopped in place.
"Dimitri…" Edelgard felt a tinge of melancholy facing Dimitri in combat, even for a training exercise. She drew her ax and firmly gripped it with both hands. "It's time! We can finally settle the question of who's stronger." Dimitri drew his lance in kind.
"Very well. I accept your challenge," Dimitri's heartbeat quickened as he felt a bead of sweat form on his brow. He too felt uneasy about fighting Edelgard. "With you as my opponent, I won't hold anything back."
"I would expect no less!" Edelgard smirked. Dimitri looked to Sylvain and Felix.
"Keep Edelgard's companion occupied," Dimitri requested.
"Hey, keeping a cute lady company? No need to tell me, Your Highness," Sylvain said cheekily. Felix rolled his eyes and groaned disgusted.
"Focus on the fight, you fool," Felix snapped. Sylvain gave Felix a wry smile. "Unless you want to walk away with your dignity intact."
"Give it your all, you two," Dimitri said encouragingly.
"Speak for yourself, boar," Felix fringed back not looking back. Dimitri paid Felix's prickly attitude no mind and met Edelgard in combat.
Edelgard swung her ax downwards forcing Dimitri to block the blow with his lance's stock. The impact of the attack sent ripples throughout the weapon and up Dimitri's arms. Despite her size, Edelgard's strength was nothing to scoff at. Dimitri pushed back against Edelgard giving him some breathing room. Dimitri then slashed at Edelgard managing to cut the white ruffle on her chest. Dimitri slashed again, Edelgard flipped backwards. When Dimitri tried to attack agin, Edelgard blocked it with her ax's blade sending Dimitri reeling.
"I'd expect you to be less predictable, Dimitri!" Edelgard chided. Dimitri grunted as he regained his composure as Edelgard went on the attack.
Dorothea was holding her ground against Felix and Sylvain. Felix's lightning quick sword slashes kept her on her toes while Sylvain followed up with lance strikes.
"What a shame that we have our first meeting on the battlefield. I'd much prefer a nice chat over dinner myself," Sylvain said with a sly wink.
"I hear that you flirt with any and all women you meet. And it seems you can't help yourself flirting on the battlefield!" Dorothea said as she struck Sylvain's lance.
"Of all the flowers at Garreg Mach, you're on the top of my list of the most beautiful," Sylvain flirted retaliating with a lance thrust.
"Enough chatting!" Felix snarled striking Dorothea with his blade. His blade cutting her sleeve and leaving a scratch. Dorothea held her arm as it stung.
"Bern! I could really use some help right now!" Dorothea called out as she conjured a fireball.
"No! No, it's too scary!" Bernadetta answered covering her head with her hood. Dorothea's fireball pushed Sylvain back knocking the wind out of him. Felix would not relent in attacking Dorothea. Bernadetta looked up from her hiding spot. Sylvain, having been sent flying to her hiding spot, made eye contact with her. Bernadetta froze like a frightened deer.
"Um…" Sylvain said confused. Bernadetta shrieked and whacked him across the head with her bow and kept bludgeoning him with it. "Okay, okay, stop! I give already!" Sylvain clutched his sore head. Felix scoffed and rolled his eyes before resuming his attack on Dorothea.
Bernadetta looked up at Felix. His intense, hazelnut eyes sent a shiver down her spine. Immediately, she fired several arrows in quick succession catching Felix off-guard. Dorothea capitalized on the opportunity and blasted him with fire.
"Thanks, Bern! You're the best!" Dorothea cheered. Bernadetta felt unsure of how to parse Dorothea's enthusiastic praise. It was something that she wasn't used to. However, it began to remind her of someone who was dear to her. Dorothea's eyes then widened looking behind Bernadetta. "Bern, look out!"
Bernadetta whirled around to see Byleth charging at her. She squealed shooting another arrow. Effortlessly, Byleth parried the projectile with a quip.
"Predictable!" Byleth managed to close the gap not slowing down. Bernadetta tried blocking the oncoming attack bracing herself for Byleth's next attack. Her bow string was cut and now rendered useless. Bernadetta stumbled back landing on her back as Byleth pointed his blade directly at her face. His eyes and voice were ice cold.
"You are defeated."
Bernadetta's body quivered fearfully. Byleth's expression was unreadable and yet frightening. Byleth's demeanor reminded Bernadetta of…him. She thought that she saw his visage over Byleth. His words echoed in her mind, familiar words she wishes she could forget.
"Useless, worthless, unmarriageable girl!" Bernadetta's eyes turned glassy and began pouring tears. She covered her face and turned on her side.
"Please, don't hurt me! I'm sorry! I'll disappear and never bother you again!" Bernadetta sobbed. Byleth put his blade down and stared at Bernadetta not expecting such a reaction.
"I…" Byleth started before being cut off by Dorothea.
"Sheesh, turn it down a notch next time, Professor Byleth," Dorothea rebuked as she picked up Bernadetta. Bernadetta broke into loud sobbing. Dorothea wrapped her arm around Bernadetta's shoulder comfortingly. As they walked away, Dorothea looked back at Byleth disapproving.
"Jeez, what happened to her?" Hilda piped up as she approached Byleth.
"Never mind that. Where's Claude?" Byleth asked.
Meanwhile, Dimitri was on the ropes as Edelgard pressured him. He was breaking a sweat and his face was flushed. Though Edelgard was also challenged by Dimitri's strength and feeling exhausted.
"You can give up now if you wish," Edelgard stated. "Perhaps it'd be in your best interest to do so."
"I won't be defeated so easily!" Dimitri said stalwart.
The battle was interrupted by Raphael and Leonie who jumped out of the bushes. Raphael threw a punch at Dimitri taking up his attention. Leonie performed a flurry of strikes at Edelgard. She dodged a few strikes but was hit by some. Edelgard kicked out at Leonie hitting her hand and causing her to lose her grip. Leonie fought through the pain but her guard was down long enough for Edelgard to knocking her off her feet with an ax strike. Dimitri's agility allowed him to outpace Raphael and send him flying backwards.
All of a sudden, Claude fired a shower of arrows down upon the royal students from up in an oak tree.
"Now Teach!" Claude yelled. Byleth struck Edelgard and Dimitri down pointing his blade down at them.
"Well done, Professor Byleth. I'd expect no less," Edelgard said smiling a small smile. Byleth nodded in response his face unchanging. He helped them up as Claude climbed down from the tree and clapped.
"Good job, Teach," Claude said as he walked up to Byleth his arms behind his head. "Who knew you were so adaptable."
"What were you thinking keeping me in the dark, Claude?" Byleth criticized sharply.
"Oh, I came up with that little stunt on the fly. Gotta see how you adapt, Teach," Claude reasoned.
"That's not acceptable, Claude. You need to be upfront with me," Byleth responded.
"Whatever you say, Teach," Claude shrugged.
"You are certainly full of surprises, Claude. Next time we fight, I'll have to be wary of your schemes," Edelgard said.
"Although, Professor Byleth has a point to not leave the others in the dark," Dimitri said frowning.
"Yeah, yeah, I'll remember that, Your Princliness," Claude smirked. "But I gotta say, I think Teach is a dependable guy. I look forward to working with you this year."
"There're only a few other students and Professors Hanneman and Manuela to defeat," Hilda said ponderously.
"Well, you all might want to head back to join the others. We'll see you after we've claimed our well-earned victory," Claude said casually. Dimitri, Edelgard, Raphael, Leonie, Felix, and Sylvain headed back to their peers.
Byleth, however, was lost in thought. His mind having wandered back to Bernadetta and her reaction to him earlier. Claude was quick to pick up on this.
"Hmm? Something on your mind, Teach?"
"…It's nothing. Let's go," Byleth answered.
After the battle, the spectators, professors, and their students returned to Garreg Mach. The students were treated for their injuries, thankfully all minor and easily treated. The most damaged parts were certain students' pride. As the party climbed the stairs, the Gatekeeper greeted Lady Rhea and the others with a deep bow and stated.
"Greetings, Lady Rhea! Nothing to report!" Rhea smiled and nodded towards the young man appreciatively. They entered the main hall.
"An exceptional display, Professor Byleth. I hope that the students learned well under you?" Rhea asked. Byleth was looking off into the distance something seemingly on his mind. "Professor Byleth?" Byleth snapped back to reality a little embarrassed. Seteth raised an eyebrow and was about to speak up until Rhea put a hand on his shoulder.
"My apologies. I believe they did. And I promise that they'll improve with time," Byleth answered. "I was actually going to take them back to the classroom for further critiquing." Lorenz looked down slightly as Leonie snickered. Claude smirked at him.
"An excellent idea. Feel free to do as you see fit to help them," Rhea smiled. "We shall see you tomorrow for your assignment come next month. And the same goes for you Captain Jeralt." Jeralt nodded in response. Rhea and Seteth turned to leave, Seteth looking over his shoulder to glance at Byleth briefly.
"Sheesh, that Seteth character must have a stick up his ass," Jeralt said once they were out of earshot. "Good job, kid." Jeralt playfully slugged Byleth in the shoulder. "I had a feeling you'd be a good teacher, though I certainly didn't expect you to land a gig here of all places."
"Yeah," Byleth said somewhat distantly. Jeralt cocked his head quizzically.
"What's up?" Jeralt asked.
"That girl. The violet-haired one from the Black Eagles," Byleth answered. "I upset her earlier during the fight."
"What, over losing? She'll have to learn that losing's apart of life-" Byleth cut Jeralt off.
"No, I mean I deeply distressed her. It wasn't over losing, I can tell," Byleth went on. "I need to find her and talk with her." Jeralt placed a hand on Byleth's shoulder.
"Takes a big man to admit when he's done wrong," Jeralt said fondly.
Meanwhile, with the Black Eagle class, Bernadetta slinked off back to her room and locked the door behind her. Her tears have dried up, but her face was still stained and burning hot. She flung herself onto her bed and buried her face into her pillow.
"That was too much for Bernie. I can't stay here!" Bernadetta said despairingly. "But where can Bernie go? I don't want to go back home to… him! But mother. I can't leave her. Oh…" Then, came a rapping at her door.
"Excuse me," Byleth's voice sounded from behind it. Bernadetta jumped in her skin remembering Byleth from earlier.
"Wh-What is it? What do you want?" Bernadetta asked.
"Can we talk, please?" Bernadetta scurried to the door. Ugh, I wish I had a peephole so I don't even need to open the door, she thought. Bernadetta opened the door just a crack to see Byleth standing there. His demeanor seemed different than when they were fighting. He seemed more docile.
"Yes?" Bernadetta squeaked.
"About earlier, I want to apologize for distressing you earlier," Byleth explained. "I'm sorry. I let the battle get to my head. I didn't mean to reduce you to tears." Bernadetta's heart warmed at this.
"Oh, um, thank you! I appreciate your apology Professor… Byleth, right?" Bernadetta said smiling. Byleth nodded.
"That's right. What's your name?" Byleth enquired.
"Bernadetta… von Varley," Bernadetta answered. "Or Bernie for short."
"Nice to meet you, Bernadetta," Byleth said extending his hand. Bernadetta gingerly took Byleth's hand, his hand gripped hers firmly yet comfortably giving it a good shake. "If I may ask, why did you cry earlier?" Bernadetta's smile disappeared.
"Oh, that…" She rubbed her forearm nervously. "It was just stress, that's all. I'm… not used to combat. I don't know if I can stay here. What if I d-die?!" This was half-true at least.
"Each battle a chance to grow. You're still new to this, treat yourself gently," Byleth reassured. "Professor Manuela will surly do a good job teaching you. And I'm happy to help you, too."
"Oh, thank you, Professor," Bernadetta said. "I'll… keep that in mind." Bernadetta then yawned. "Professor, if it's okay I'd like some time to myself. I'm getting tired."
"Of course, have a good night, Bernadetta," Byleth said politely. Bernadetta shut her door and sat on her bed. "Professor Byleth isn't so bad after all. He's… nice. I haven't met someone as nice as… that boy and uncle Edward. Mother used to be nice, too." Bernadetta sighed. "Go to bed, Bernie. You need sleep."
Before she could bury herself underneath her warm linens, however, another knocking came from her door. Bernadetta turned back towards the door and cracked it open. It was Edelgard.
"Open the door at once," she ordered coldly. Bernadetta quickly opened the door, her heart starting to pound. Hubert was standing off to the side almost obscured in the shadows.
"Yes, Lady Edelgard?" Bernadetta squeaked. Edelgard crossed her arms frowning.
"What has gotten into you today? Dorothea told me about your outburst earlier today. And why was Professor Byleth at your door?" Edelgard asked expectantly. Bernadetta fidgeted awkwardly. She looked away thoughts racing as to how to answer the princess. "Look at me in the eyes." Bernadetta shuddered.
"I-I'm sorry for what happened today! It was just so… stressful! Even though there was no chance of dying in that mock battle, it was just a taste of what could happen in a real battle!" Bernadetta said through a shaky voice. "As for the Professor, he was just… coming back to apologize to me for being so frightening, you know?"
"Bernadetta, this is why you must practice your combat skills. So you can overcome your fears and you can protect yourself," Edelgard said calming slightly. "From now on, I expect you to step up your participation in battle. I want you to fight by my side from now on until I can see improvement in your skills and your attitude."
"What?!" Bernadetta practically screamed. "You watching over me at all times?! Can't I get some time away from battle?" Edelgard firmly shook her head.
"When we're not practicing or on a mission, do whatever you please. But I will not stand for this ridiculous behavior of yours. Understood?" Edelgard's words were like nails being hammered into Bernadetta as if she were a useless wooden board.
"Yes, Lady Edelgard," Bernadetta sighed.
"Good, now get some sleep. Our deal begins tomorrow morning. Make sure you uphold your end of the bargain," Edelgard said authoritatively before walking away. Hubert stared at Bernadetta and smirked.
"You'd be wise to keep your promise to Lady Edelgard, Lady Bernadetta. I too will be watching you and will make sure that Edelgard's desires are met," Hubert then followed his mistress.
Bernadetta scurried into her room, slammed the door, and locked it tossing the key onto the desk. She fell to her knees staring at the floor. Hot tears fell to the floor with the events that just played out circling in her head like a mad dog chasing its tail hungrily. Bernadetta buried her face into her hands sobbing. Now, being at home in her room did not seem as bad as before.
Later that night
Byleth got undressed in his bedroom and put on some black sweats. He looked himself over in the mirror. He touched the burn mark in the middle of his chest, a mark as big as a clenched fist.
"What's with that mark?" Sothis asked materializing next to him. Byleth blushed slightly.
"It's weird remembering that you live inside my head. Especially with you being female," Byleth said plainly. Sothis scoffed.
"Get your mind out of the gutter! I'm not the kind of girl who'd lose her mind seeing a shirtless man. Now answer me."
"I don't know. Father told me I got this mark when I was a baby during a house fire," Byleth replied. "The same fire that killed my mother." Sothis' eyes widened.
"Oh my. I'm sorry, how terrible," she said sympathetically.
"I can't recall my mother's face," Byleth continued. "I was too young to know her properly. And yet, I find my father's claim about my mark hard to believe." Byleth felt the mark. The scarred tissue felt rough under his touch. "Furthermore, my heart doesn't palpitate and yet I'm still living. I asked father about it but he refused to answer me. Not a day goes by when I don't wonder about what secrets father is hiding, and why he'd do so." Sothis put a hand to her chin and smiled.
"You truly are an interesting character," Sothis smiled. "Your father worked for the Church of Seiros, he has history with Lady Rhea, then perhaps you're at the place where you'll get those answers."
"It may be best to not burden my father and Lady Rhea with such questions. I'll give it some time before asking them," Byleth answered. Sothis shrugged.
"If you insist," Sothis stated.